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Recent advances in optical-based and force-based single nucleic acid imaging

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Abstract

The capability to image, as well as control and manipulate single molecules such as nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) can greatly enrich our knowledge of the roles of individual biomolecules in cellular processes and their behavior in native environments. Here we summarize the recent advances of single nucleic acid imaging based on optical observation and force manipulation. We start by discussing the superiority of single molecule image, the central roles nucleic acids play in biosystems, and the significance of single molecule image towards nucleic acids. We then list a series of representative examples in brief to illustrate how nucleic acid of various morphologies has been imaged from different aspects, and what can be learned from such characterizations. Finally, concluding remarks on parts of which should be improved and outlook are outlined.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21525523, 21574048, 21375042, 21405054), the National Basic Research Program of China (2015CB932600, 2013CB933000), the Special Fund for Strategic New Industry Development of Shenzhen, China (JCYJ20150616144425376), and 1000 Young Talent (to Fan Xia).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry & Materia Medica, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China

    Shenshan Zhan, Xiaoding Lou & Fan Xia

  2. Faculty of Material Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China

    Xiaoding Lou & Fan Xia

  3. Shenzhen Institute of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518000, China

    Fan Xia

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  1. Shenshan Zhan
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  2. Xiaoding Lou
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Correspondence to Fan Xia.

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Zhan, S., Lou, X. & Xia, F. Recent advances in optical-based and force-based single nucleic acid imaging. Sci. China Chem. 60, 1267–1276 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11426-017-9097-4

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